Department of Parks & Recreation: Prescribed Burn Plan Agreement

Department of Parks & Recreation, Natural Resources Division · Bob Branham, Director · 2026-02-18

Background

The Department of Parks and Recreation’s Natural Resources Division strategic plan includes developing a meadow management protocol. To support this goal, the Maryland Forest Service has developed a prescribed burn plan for meadows along Grays Road in Prince Frederick. Initial burns were conducted in January 2021, with ongoing burns planned every two to three years. The 2026 burn will cover approximately 15.7 acres at Biscoe Gray Heritage Farm, Gatewood Preserve and Battle Creek Cypress Swamp. The project is intended to reduce excessive thatch, remove invasive plant species and promote the growth of native warm-season grasses.

Discussion

The Maryland Forest Service has prepared a prescribed burning plan for 2026, along with a prescribed burning agreement outlining the responsibilities of each party. The burn will be conducted under the direction of certified Maryland Forest Service personnel in accordance with the approved plan. Natural Resources Division staff will fulfill the county’s obligations under the agreement. The burn is anticipated to occur before March 31, 2026, depending on weather and site conditions, and is expected to be completed in less than one day. The Health Department air quality permit will be finalized once the burn date is confirmed to ensure compliance. Upon authorization by the Board of County Commissioners, adjacent landowners will be notified, and staff will coordinate with the Department of Communications and Media Relations to provide advance public notice.

Coordination

Office of the County Attorney

Extracted from the source document (public record).